April 2, 2024
Updated May 19, 2025
16 minute read
Embarking on a Career as a 3D Modeler
A 3D modeler is a digital artist who creates three-dimensional models of objects, characters, and environments. These models are used across a vast array of industries, bringing concepts and ideas to life in a virtual space. At its core, 3D modeling involves using specialized software to sculpt, shape, and texture digital assets, transforming a blank canvas into a tangible, albeit virtual, creation. This field combines artistic talent with technical proficiency, requiring a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of form, light, and material.
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Find a path to becoming a 3D Modeler. Learn more at:
OpenCourser.com/career/ma64vw/3d
Reading list
We've selected some books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
3D Modeler.
Is the official manual for Blender, written by the Blender Foundation. It comprehensive resource that covers everything from the basics to advanced techniques.
This foundational textbook widely used in academia and industry. It provides a comprehensive overview of various AM processes, their principles, advantages, and disadvantages. It is an excellent resource for gaining a broad understanding and serves as a strong reference for those deepening their knowledge.
Offers an in-depth exploration of polygonal modeling, rasterization, and shading.
Focusing on metal additive manufacturing, this book delves into the technical aspects of processes like powder bed fusion, materials, testing, and relevant standards. It is highly relevant for graduate students and professionals specializing in metal AM, offering in-depth knowledge and practical considerations for designing and producing metal components.
Specifically addresses the crucial aspect of designing parts for additive manufacturing. It is essential for students and professionals involved in the design process, providing guidelines and examples for optimizing designs to leverage the unique capabilities of AM technologies. It directly relates to courses on Design for Additive Manufacturing.
Comprehensive guide to Blender, covering everything from the basics to advanced techniques. It great resource for both beginners and experienced users who want to learn more about Blender.
This handbook offers a practical guide to 3D printing, covering key aspects from design to post-processing. Based on industry expertise, it's valuable for professionals and advanced students looking for practical insights and technical details. It complements theoretical knowledge with real-world applications.
Covers fundamental principles, technologies, and applications of AM. It includes recent trends and advancements, making it suitable for graduate students and industry professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of the field and its evolution. It serves as a good reference for various AM techniques and materials.
Delves into the materials used in AM, the various processes, methods for quantification, and diverse applications. It offers a detailed look at these key aspects of additive manufacturing, making it a valuable reference for researchers and engineers working with different AM materials and processes.
This textbook provides a solid introduction to the basics of additive manufacturing, covering principles, technologies, materials, and applications. It includes solved examples and review questions, making it suitable for undergraduate and graduate students starting in the field. It offers a structured approach to understanding AM.
Explores various applications and recent innovations in additive manufacturing across different industries. It provides case studies and discusses advanced topics, making it relevant for those interested in the practical implementation and future potential of AM. It is suitable for advanced undergraduates, graduate students, and professionals.
Covers the fundamentals, modeling, various technologies, and applications of additive manufacturing. It provides a comprehensive overview of the field, suitable for undergraduate and graduate students, as well as professionals seeking a solid understanding of AM processes and their underlying principles.
Great resource for those who want to learn how to UV map for games. It is written by Jason Osipa, a well-known 3D artist and educator.
This video course teaches you how to UV map and texture for Cinema 4D. It is taught by Ryan Kingslien, a leading expert in the field.
Is geared towards practitioners transitioning to additive manufacturing. It covers the practical aspects of the AM production process, including materials, machine preparation, and post-processing. It provides real-world examples and is valuable for those seeking to implement AM in an industrial setting.
Project-based guide to the Blender Game Engine, covering a wide range of topics from creating game assets to scripting and gameplay. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn how to create games in Blender.
Offers an in-depth exploration of polygonal modeling with Maya, a 3D modeling, animation, rendering, and compositing software package.
This specialized book focuses on the emerging field of 3D printed electronics. It provides an overview of the principles, technologies, advantages, and applications in this area. It valuable resource for students and researchers interested in the intersection of AM and electronics.
This handbook focuses on the practical aspects of product visualization, providing step-by-step instructions on how to create realistic 3D models and renderings. It valuable resource for those who want to develop their technical skills in product visualization.
Offers an in-depth exploration of polygonal modeling within the DirectX 12 API.
Explores the relationship between product visualization and the metaverse. It examines how product visualization is being used to create immersive and engaging experiences in the metaverse and how this trend is likely to evolve in the future.
Offers an introduction to polygonal modeling for video games.
Offers a beginner-friendly introduction to 3D printing, explaining the basics of the technology, different types of printers, and modeling methods. It is ideal for high school students or those completely new to the subject, providing an easy-to-understand entry point into the world of AM.
Offers an introduction to polygonal modeling, providing a simple, straightforward way to communicate both simple and complex 3D modeling techniques.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/career/ma64vw/3d